MDHHS Launches Bilingual Health Resources to Support Seasonal Workers Amid Bird Flu Outbreak

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has launched new bilingual health resources to support seasonal workers who may be at risk of contracting influenza A, also known as bird flu. This initiative comes in response to two reported cases of the virus among dairy workers in the state.

The resources include information releases and a hotline that serves individuals in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Additional support is offered for translation services in languages other than English and Spanish, given that a significant portion of Michigan’s seasonal farm workers are primarily Spanish speakers.

MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel emphasized the importance of proactive measures to inform seasonal farmers in Michigan about health concerns such as influenza A (H5N1). The funds are designed to promote the welfare of all residents, especially those in the agricultural sector.

By providing information and support in multiple languages, MDHHS aims to reach a wider audience and ensure that important health resources are available to seasonal workers in Michigan. This initiative highlights a commitment to the health and safety of all residents, especially those in vulnerable communities such as farm workers.